Free Parking in Melbourne CBD – Updated 2025

Free parking in Melbourne CBD refers to areas or times where you can park your vehicle without a fee. This might include specific street parking spots during designated hours, time-limited parking zones, or certain public areas on weekends or evenings. Availability and regulations vary, so checking local signage and municipal guidelines is essential.

Free parking in Melbourne CBD is challenging due to high demand and limited spaces. However, my few strategies and tips below can help you find free or more affordable parking options.

More Than 100 Off-Street Car Parks in Melbourne CBD

Melbourne CBD offers more than 100 off-street car parks, providing both paid and free parking options. Some car parks offer short-term free parking, making them ideal for quick stops. Private garages also have deals on weekends and public holidays.

15-Minute Free Parking with EasyPark App

The City of Melbourne has expanded the 15-minute free parking initiative to include areas like Carlton and Southbank, following its success in the central city. This allows drivers to park free of charge for up to 15 minutes in any ‘green signed’ parking space by using the EasyPark app. Simply start and stop your parking session within the 15-minute window to avail of this offer.

Free Parking in Docklands

Limited free 3-hour parking spots are available near the free tram zone in the Docklands area. This is a good option if you don’t mind a short tram ride into the city centre.

Free Parking in Southbank

Like Docklands, some free 2-hour parking spots are available in Southbank, near the Southgate precinct. Remember that these spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Free Parking in Carlton and Fitzroy

These inner-city neighbourhoods of Carlton and Fitzroy offer some free on-street parking, but consider that time limits and residential permit zones may apply. Be sure to read the signs carefully before parking.

Free Parking at Woolworths Flagstaff Gardens

This supermarket offers free underground parking for up to 3 hours with a minimum $10 grocery purchase.

Free Parking at Melbourne Central

While not technically free, the Melbourne Central car park offers free parking for the first 30 minutes with any purchase.

Free Parking in West Melbourne

Streets like William St, Dudley St, and Little La Trobe St offer 4-hour free parking on weekdays and unlimited free parking on weekends and public holidays. However, be aware of resident permit zones.

Free Parking in Richmond

In Richmond, head to streets like Lennox St, Bridge Rd, and Punt Rd for 2-hour free parking during weekdays and unlimited free parking on weekends and public holidays.

Free Parking in Chapel Street, Prahran, and St Kilda

If you’re looking to park freely in Chapel Street, Prahran, or St Kilda, there are several options:

• Chapel Street: Some side streets offer free parking after certain hours.
• Prahran: Free parking is available near parks and residential areas.
• St Kilda: Limited free parking spots can be found near the beach and around Acland Street.

Free Parking in the City Centre

Many streets in the city centre offer free parking after 6:30 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends and public holidays. Check signs carefully for restrictions and permitted parking times.

Free 15-Minute Parking in Green-Signed Bays

Every general parking bay (green signed) is free for 15 minutes. This is perfect for quick errands, picking up food, or making a short stop in the city. Just ensure you adhere to the time limits to avoid fines.

Council Car Parks with Free Night Parking

In Melbourne CBD, there are 3 council car parks that allow free night parking. These car parks are mentioned below.

1. Albert Park: Free parking from 6 PM to 8 AM daily.
2. Edinburgh Gardens: Free parking from 6 PM to 8 AM daily.
3. Queen Victoria Market: Free parking from 6 PM to 7 AM daily, except Wednesdays when the market is open.

More Options to Find Free Parking in Melbourne CBD

• Time Restrictions: Many free parking spots in Melbourne come with time restrictions, often allowing parking for only a couple of hours at a time. It’s crucial to check any signs or markings indicating these restrictions to avoid fines.
• Parking Apps: Utilise parking apps like Parkopedia or SpotHero to locate available parking spots near your destination. These apps can help you find areas with free parking, especially those slightly further away from popular attractions or busy streets​.
• Nearby Suburbs: Consider looking for parking in suburbs close to the CBD, such as Southbank or Docklands, which may have free parking spots. You can walk or take public transport from there to the city centre.
• Secure-a-Spot Service: Secure Parking offers a service called Secure-a-Spot, where you can book parking in advance online. While not free, this service can offer more affordable parking rates, especially if you book early bird, evening, or weekend slots​.
• Harbour Town at Docklands: For a more affordable option slightly outside the CBD, Harbour Town at Docklands provides parking rates starting from $3 for the first hour and a flat rate of $10 for stays exceeding four hours. This can be a cost-efficient way to park near the CBD and use public transport to get around.

Alternative Parking Options

While free parking can be limited, consider exploring nearby suburbs such as South Melbourne or North Melbourne, where parking may be more readily available. Public transport from these areas can be a convenient way to access the CBD.

Remember, free parking availability can change frequently, so always check the latest information. And most importantly, park responsibly and follow all parking regulations!